When I began preparing for my semester in Florence, my Google Drive was inundated with recommendations for Italian restaurants, bars, travel destinations and coffee shops. As I assumed the role of detective, I collected as much information as I could about studying abroad in Italy to alleviate my fears about living in a new country.

The peer recommendation lists, packing and schedule information I was provided by the University of California felt antiseptic compared to a conversation with someone who had experienced the program. I am certain that a more personalized chat would have eased many of my pre-departure anxieties.